Abstract:
Driver error rather than rider error has been highlighted as a major factor in
powered-two wheeler (PTW) accidents. However, little work on understanding
and preventing these driver errors has taken place. Previous research which has
addressed the issue of driver involvement has focused upon increasing the
conspicuity of the PTW or rider and has tended to ignore issues associated with
car driver behaviour.
A framework is presented which facilitates an understanding of driver error in
interactions with PTWs. The concepts of Technical Awareness and Social
Awareness are used to describe conditions which may predispose drivers to
errors when interacting with PTWs. An empirical examination of the framework
is presented, examining the relationship between lack of Technical and/or Social
Awareness and accident involvement. Relevant information was obtained from
over 700 drivers involved in accidents with PTWs within 9 police divisions in
England. This information was compared with responses to a random survey of
over 1500 drivers sampled from the same area.
The results indicate that some of the most important factors in PTW accidents
may be accounted for by lack of driver Technical and Social Awareness. These
findings have specific implications for the direction of future research and
counter measure development and indicate where previous accident reduction
efforts have been lacking. In particular, current emphasis on rider performance
and rider conspicuity should be supplemented with direct consideration of
drivers. It is concluded that using training and education to increase the Technical
and Social Awareness of drivers would be an area of high potential effectiveness.
